There is an initial consultation where a detailed eye examination is performed and the refractive error or weakness of your eye is assessed. Normally the consultation tests are not performed on the same day as the treatment and although both eyes may be treated at the same time it is normal to treat the weaker, non-dominant eye first.

It is performed in sterile conditions and initially the doctor applies anaesthetic eye drops to the eye, a small eye clip is used to keep the eyelid open and a small suction ring is then applied to the eye for a few seconds. This allows a thin layer of the cornea to be lifted up to create a flap using specially designed automated instrument called a micro-keratome.

The Excimer laser then removes a predetermined amount of corneal tissue to resculpt the cornea. The exposed corneal flap is then repositioned in exactly the same place and a plastic shield is then normally applied to prevent you rubbing your eye.

Length of Operation

The whole procedure normally takes around 20-40 minutes.

Post-Operative Management

Immediately after treatment you should be allowed to go home with some eye drops to aid the healing process. It is recommended that you do not drive or operate machinery after treatment and an eye shield should be worn at night for at least one week. The eye may be red and watery for the first few days.

It is very important not to rub or press on the eye for the first three months and certainly no swimming or diving for one month. It is usually sensible to avoid bright lights by the use of sunglasses and also take some simple painkillers as required. If one eye has been treated there might well be a feeling of imbalance for the first few days until the vision improves and the second eye is treated.

Time off Work

Return to work is normally governed by the improvement in vision. You should be able to return to work after 2 days. You might find the vision fluctuates during the first few weeks and will be noted to be dimmer during the follow up because this is normally is arranged just to check the healing process is satisfactory.

It is not recommended that you drive until the eye feels comfortable. If one eye has been treated it is normally recommended not to drive for the first 5-10 days. Care must be taken at night as reduced night vision may occur.

You can resume normal activities after 10-14 days. However it is important to avoid strong sunlight and dusty environments. You should avoid swimming for one month to decrease the chance of infection.